Holy Week.
1. History.—As early as the third century, we find mention of a more especial observance of the last week of Lent. (St. Denis, Bp. of Alexandria.) St. John Chrysostom, who lived in the fourth century, calls it "The Great Week," not because of a greater number of days, but because of the great mysteries commem orated. It was also called Hebdomada Poenosa, The Painful Week, both on account of the sufferings of Christ which were then recalled, and also because of the fatigue consequent upon the celebration of these holy mysteries. The Germans still call it Charwoche, the week of sorrows. From the fact that on Maunday Thursday public sinners were reconciled to the church this week was known as "The Week of Indulgence." But it is most commonly called The Holy Week on account of the holiness of the mysteries celebrated.
2. Observance.—In the early church Holy Week was distinguished by the increased severity of the fast. St. Epiphanius tells us that some Christians observed a strict fast from Monday morning to the dawn of Easter. Many observed this severe fast for two, three and four days. The general practice was to fast from all food from Maunday Thursday to Easter morning. During these days the faithful passed night vigils in the churches. St. John Chrysostom tells us that on Maunday Thursday after the commemoration of the Last Supper they remained a long time in prayer.
